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Ultimate Packing Guide for Your Machu Picchu Adventure
When the opportunity to go to Machu Picchu arose, I jumped on it. It would be my first time flying internationally, which was exciting and nerve-wracking. Since I would be completing the 46-mile Salkantay Trek, I knew I needed to pack light. Additionally, I would also be spending additional time in Cusco and Aguas Calientes, so I wanted clothes that were also photo-worthy. The desire to look cute but be comfortable for your once-in-a-lifetime photos at this Wonder of the World makes for a tricky packing situation.
When I visited Machu Picchu in May of 2024, it was near the end of the wet season and entering the dry season. The days were hot, the nights were chilly, and it threatened to rain half the time. This post includes everything you’ll need when visiting Machu Picchu for the day.
There are some items like your passport that are an absolute necessity when visiting Machu Picchu, but you would be leaving things like your sleeping bag and hiking poles at your hotel(if you backpacked to Machu Picchu).
If all of that sounds good to you, let’s get into your Machu Picchu Packing List!
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Machu Picchu Packing List for All Weather Conditions
This packing list for Machu Picchu is curated for all visitors to Machu Picchu. People who trekked into Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail Hike or took the train into Aguas Calientes from Cusco can use this guide when planning their day trip into the ancient Incan citadel.
When I flew to Peru to complete the Salkantay Trek, I opted not to check a bag, meaning I needed to squeeze all of my hiking and travel gear into a carry-on and personal item. It was tough, but I proved myself to be successful. I used my hiking backpack as my personal item and a small duffel bag as my carry-on.
In this blog post, I’ll include everything you’ll need to bring with you when you visit Machu Picchu, along with some specific recommendations for the time of year that you visit.
Quick Travel Guide for Machu Picchu
Use these tools to plan your trip to the Sacred Valley in Peru.
- Flights: Catch your affordable flight to Peru here! The closest airport to Machu Picchu is in Cusco, Peru.
- Hotels: Find deals on Hotels in Aguas Calientes and Cusco here!
- Hostels: Use Hostelworld to find the best Hostels around the world!
- Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance for peace of mind!
- Transportation: The best way to get around Cusco, Peru, is on foot, but you can purchase train tickets with PeruRail and Bus Tickets to Machu Picchu here.
- Soles: Be sure to have cash for tour guide tips, bathrooms, and small purchases.
- Main Seasons for Visiting: May and October are the best months to visit Machu Picchu.
- Machu Picchu Treks: There are two different main treks to Machu Picchu: the Inca Trail and the Salkantay Trek. Each varies in the number of trekking days but ends in Aguas Calientes and can be completed as guided treks.
- Guided Tours & Activities: Use GetYourGuide for the BEST options for tours throughout Peru!
This post includes a list of the most important items to bring to Machu Picchu! Let’s get into it.
Packing for a Day Trip to Machu Picchu
Most people who visit Machu Picchu stay in Aguas Calientes, Peru, at the base of the archeological site. Aguas Calientes is where most visitors of Machu Picchu will meet their Machu Picchu tour operator and catch the bus up to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
While you can purchase a bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu separately from a Machu Picchu Entry Ticket, I recommend a guided tour. I booked a guided tour with a bus ticket from Aguas Calientes and entry. I learned so much about Machu Picchu that I wouldn’t have had I completed a self-guided tour.
If you’re visiting Machu Picchu from Cusco, you can book a group tour that begins in Cusco! Taking the glass ceiling from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes is a gorgeous journey that the tour company manages, so you can take in the sites around you without worrying about transportation.
Day Trip to Machu Picchu from Cusco
One of the best options for visiting Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley is booking a guided tour. This tour is the best option for travelers staying in Cusco!
Included in the cost of the tour is transportation to and from the sacred city, with the option to take the glass-roofed train.
This tour is a full-day commitment, but it is absolutely worth it. The tour guides ensure you get to Aguas Calientes, entrances into Machu Picchu, and provide a narrated tour of the grounds.
Trip to Aguas Calientes
If you have time in your Peru Itinerary for a few days in Aguas Calientes, I cannot recommend it enough.
Take the glass-roofed train to Aguas Calientes and stay in one of the many gorgeous hotels in Agua Calientes.
In Aguas Calientes, you can enjoy Machu Picchu sites, shopping, street performers, and excellent restaurants.
Backpacking to Machu Picchu
One of the most popular ways to get to Machu Picchu is by foot. The Inca Jungle Trail and Salkantay Trail are both stunning routes through Peru.
The Salkantay Trek takes you up to 15,000 ft of elevation across swing bridges and through coffee farms.
The Inca Trail brings you through hot springs (pack a bathing suit!) into ancient Inca ruins and lush jungles.
Both routes are extremely popular. Each can be booked with tour guides or planned on your own.
Packing Considerations
When you’re packing for the day of your Machu Picchu Tour, consider the following:
- Temperature – Especially during the winter months, warm layers are encouraged. Temperatures can vary between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes, with the latter being slightly warmer.
- Weather – Weather changes rapidly at higher elevations. Check weather reports the morning of your reservation, and always bring a rain jacket with you. Store your travel documents in a waterproof dry bag.
- UV Radiation – At such a high altitude, almost 8,000 ft, UV radiation can be damaging even on overcast days. So pack a sun hat, wear a lightweight long-sleeve shirt, and plenty of sunscreen.
- Planned Circuit – There are different circuits you can complete when you tour Machu Picchu. If your circuit includes completing Huayna Picchu or Huchuy Picchu Mountain, you’ll want to opt for a good pair of hiking boots(and maybe blister plasters).
- Post-Tour Plans – Consider what you will be doing after your Machu Picchu Trek! If you will be going directly to lunch, hopping onto a train, or doing some shopping, you might want to pack some wet wipes to clean up for your next exploration.
Essential Items
While many of the items that you bring to Machu Picchu are unique to the experience you wish to have, there are a few items that are required and highly encouraged.
I carried all of my items in my Osprey Backpack, which I used as my personal item for flying. It was the perfect size for carrying everything I needed for this epic adventure!
- Passport and Tickets: You need your passport to enter Machu Picchu, and it’s best to have your tickets pre-booked to avoid any last-minute hassles. If you’re going with a guide, they will have your tickets. This is one of the most popular guided tours of Machu Picchu that leaves from Cusco.
- Camera and Extra Batteries: The views are spectacular, so you’ll want to capture them. I captured all of my images on my favorite travel camera, Fuji x100v; it is compact and lightweight, making it perfect to come with you wherever life takes you. Bring extra batteries and memory cards!
- Snacks: Pack a few small snacks with you, but there are no garbage cans, so you will have to pack out what you pack. Many guided tours will provide Peruvian snacks!
- Soles: It costs two soles to use the restroom at the entrance of Machu Picchu. I recommend bringing your own toilet paper and any other sanitary products you might need during your trip.
- First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit with band-aids, cleansing wipes, altitude sickness medication, and personal medications is always a good idea. If you’re going with a guide, they may be carrying a medkit with them, but it is not guaranteed. Our guide even carried a small oxygen tank in case we experienced breathing problems at high altitude.
- Lip Balm: Bring a lip balm with SPF. At high elevations, it is easy for your lips to get sunburnt.
- Sun Protection: The high altitude means stronger UV rays. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen to protect yourself. There are limited shaded areas throughout the site, so don’t count on finding any respite from the sun throughout the day.
- Insect Repellent: While mosquitoes are less common at higher elevations, other biting insects can be a nuisance. Pack a good bug spray. I prefer a insect repellent lotion for all-around coverage.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Single-use plastics are not allowed, so bring a reusable bottle, preferably with a built-in filter, to stay hydrated. If you’re used to carrying a water bladder, that would be an ideal option for hot days.
- Daypack: A small, comfortable backpack to carry your essentials. Remember, large bags are not allowed inside the site, so a small day pack will be perfect to carry all of your items. If you’re completing a trek, you can pack a small backpack to bring onto the sacred site.
Using dry bags was immensely helpful for keeping my gear organized and dry on my Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
Clothing Essentials
When it comes to what you should pack to wear at Machu Picchu, personal preference is key.
Day trips to Machu Picchu are long days, so having a couple of layers to put on and take out throughout the day will be helpful in keeping you comfortable for the entirety of the day.
- Layer Up: The weather at Machu Picchu can change rapidly. In colder weather, start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a warm mid-layer like a fleece, and top it off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. This way, you can easily adjust to the temperature changes throughout the day. In warm weather, pack a waterproof jacket or windbreaker. Backcountry makes my favorite long-sleeve shirts for travel.
- Pants: Pants are great for sun and insect protection. Convertible pants that can turn into shorts are a versatile option, and if you’re completing a Machu Picchu Trek, you likely already have a pair! In the rainy season, insects thrive, protecting your ankles with pants and insect repellent will be valuable.
- Rain Gear: Even during the dry season, rain is possible. Pack a lightweight, packable rain jacket or poncho to stay dry.
- Sturdy Footwear: If you plan to hike, sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are a must. For day touring, comfortable sneakers with good traction will suffice. During the rainy season, wear waterproof hiking boots with good traction. Pair your hiking boots with good quality wool socks to keep your feet safe from blisters.
My tour was the first tour allowed into the site that day. The morning was cool, but by the end of our tour, it was blistering hot. In my group, women wore everything from exercise dresses to hiking clothes, and ponchos purchased in Cusco.
Dry Season vs. Rainy Season
There are two distinct “seasons,” dry and wet, but both have drawbacks and benefits.
During the Dry Season, June through October, temperatures are colder, and foliage is dormant. This is winter in the southern hemisphere. Extra layers are a must, along with a hat and gloves. There is an influx of crowds during the dry season compared to the rainy season.
During the Rainy Season, November through March, temperatures warm up, and humidity increases, as does cloud cover. Summer months bring plenty of local festivals and fewer crowds. Consider increasing your stay in Aguas Calientes by a day or two during the Rainy Season for an opportunity to go to Machu Picchu on a clear day, which is still possible during the rainy season.
The positives of visiting during the dry season include avoiding rain but having higher prices. The positives for visiting during the rainy season are avoiding crowds and higher prices but having an increased likelihood of being rained on.
But what about shoulder season? The shoulder season is May and October. In May, the weather is beginning to cool down, but chances of rain are still likely. In October, the weather is warming up, and it is beginning to rain. You’ll want to be prepared for cold and wet conditions in both situations. However, it offers the best of both seasons and is the prime opportunity to visit Machu Picchu, aside from the increased tourism rates. It is my strongest recommendation to visit during the shoulder season!
Machu Picchu Circuits
When packing for Machu Picchu, it is also important to consider what circuit you’ll be completing! You can purchase tickets for individual entry based on what you desire to see at Machu Picchu.
Here is a list of what you can expect to see at each of the different circuits:
Circuit 1: Panorámico
- This circuit focuses on the upper terraces of Machu Picchu, offering iconic panoramic views of the citadel and Huayna Picchu. It’s perfect for those who want to capture the classic postcard photo of Machu Picchu.
- Best for visitors looking for the best views and photo opportunities without exploring the entire site.
Circuit 2: Circuito Clásico
- This is the most comprehensive circuit, covering both the upper and lower terraces. It includes major sites like the Temple of the Sun and the Sacred Rock, providing a thorough exploration of Machu Picchu.
- Best for history buffs and those wanting to see a large portion of the site.
Circuit 3: Machupicchu Realeza
- This circuit focuses on the royal buildings, such as the Temple of the Sun and the Royal Palace, and sticks to the lower terraces. It involves fewer stairs, making it easier to navigate.
- Best for visitors interested in the royal structures and those who prefer a less physically demanding route.
How to Choose:
- For iconic photos: Circuit 1
- For a comprehensive tour: Circuit 2
- For an easier walk with a focus on royal buildings: Circuit 3.
If you have any specific interests or physical considerations, let me know, and I can help you decide further!
Additional Machu Picchu Packing Tips
Visiting Peru for the first time was life-changing, and I cannot wait to go back! Here are some additional tips for planning your trip to Machu Picchu.
- Altitude Sickness: Consider bringing altitude sickness tablets if you’re prone to it. Staying hydrated and taking it easy on your first day can help mitigate symptoms, as well as avoiding alcohol. I took this altitude sickness medication beginning two days prior to being in Peru and every day I was in Peru.
When I was preparing for my multi-day hike to Machu Picchu, I completed an altitude adjustment course to prepare for the elevation change. The course was through Recal Travel and I found the program to be extremely helpful as someone who traveled to Peru from sea level.
- Cash: Bring some local currency (Peruvian Sol) for small purchases and tips, as not all places accept credit cards. Using the bathroom in Peru typically costs between 1 – 2 Soles. Use a coin pouch or plastic bags to keep your money together as you travel through Peru.
When exchanging money for Soles, specifically ask for coins. They were challenging to come by once in Peru.
- Travel Insurance: My travel insurance came in handy since I missed my connecting flight to Lima when leaving the US, which caused me to miss a non-refundable Peruvian Cooking Class in Cusco. My travel insurance covered the cost of my canceled tour!
Transportation is not always the most reliable in Peru, consider having backup options and planning plenty of buffer time in between activities to get from one location to another.
I hope this helps when you’re deciding what to pack for Machu Picchu!
Pack It Up
This guide included the basics of what to pack for Machu Picchu!
Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan citadel located in the Andes Mountains of Peru, South America. Identified as both a UNESCO World Heritage Centre and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu sees over 1.5 million visitors annually, which equates to almost 4,000 visitors per day. That number is only growing.
The number of visitors that this ancient, historic site receives has been causing irrefutable damage to the ancient stones, causing wear and tear. This impact on the site has caused UNESCO to consider closing Machu Picchu to visitors in order to preserve the site. While there is no set date to close, it is impending. Visit Machu Picchu while you can!
Happy packing for Machu Picchu!
If you have any questions, drop them in the comments so I can help.
Meet the Author -
Sarah Borgen
I am an Educator and outdoor Enthusiast based out of Seattle and writer of Exploren Borgen! My adventures consist of weekends spent in the woods, on a hike, car camping, and taking a deep breath of fresh air. When not on an adventure, you can find me in a classroom teaching high school science! I love having a job that allows me to the opportunity to discuss things like conservation, sustainability, and accessibility.
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Sarah Borgen, AKA your outdoor bestie
I’m an outdoorsy educator and adventure advocate, which is why I’m passionate about creating resources – like blogs, guides, and interactive maps – to simplify your travels. I’m eager to share some of Washington’s greatest destinations and hidden gems with you.
2 Responses
Hello! I’m heading to Peru to do the Salkantay trek. I’m wondering if you think I should get a filtered water bottle? If so, Do you have a recommendation? Thank you for your great info!
Hey Tina!
That is so excited. You absolutely can bring a filtering water bottle but you will want to make sure that it is also purifying. I would recommend the Grayl GeoPress. I write about it in my “Filtering Water Bottle” post. However, I will say that when I did the trek, my guides did a great job of providing us with drinkable water throughout the day. Have the best time!